WO2013182340A1

WO2013182340A1 - Output unit for a beverage dispenser, beverage dispenser having such an output unit and method for operating such a beverage dispenser

Info

Publication number: WO2013182340A1
Application number: PCT/EP2013/057911
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bruno MOSIMANN; Peter Sinzig; Felix BÜHLMANN
Original assignee: Schaerer Ag
Priority date: 2012-06-04
Filing date: 2013-04-16
Publication date: 2013-12-12
Also published as: CH706586A1; US20150102062A1; CH706586B1; EP2854608B1; US9617138B2; EP2854608A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an output unit (16) for a beverage dispenser (10), in particular for outputting hot beverages, through which output unit (16) a beverage and/or ingredients for a beverage are output to a container (21) standing therebelow, wherein the output unit (16) has one or more outlet assemblies (17, 18, 18a-d) for beverages and/or ingredients. Improved cleaning and/or mixing is achieved according to the invention in that the outlet assemblies (17, 18; 18a-d) each have a central inner outlet and an outer outlet which concentrically encloses the inner outlet, and in that the outer outlet is designed as a ring nozzle directed in the outlet direction so that a fluid which is output through the outer outlet encloses the inner outlet in the form of a concentric liquid sheath.

Description

Output unit for a drinks vending machine, vending machine with such a dispensing unit and method for operating such a vending machine

TECH N ISCH ES G EBI ET

The present invention relates to the field of vending machines. It relates to an output unit for a beverage dispenser according to the preamble of claim 1. It further relates to a drinks vending machine with such an output unit, and a method for operating such a vending machine. STATE OF THE ART

Automatic vending machines are known, for example, as automatic vending machines, in which freshly ground coffee powder is produced for each coffee to be purchased from coffee beans, supplied to a brewing chamber, and the coffee to be purchased is brewed under optimum conditions. Such coffee machines can also be supplemented with devices with which the coffee obtained in a known manner M ilch be supplied in different consistency, which are prepared with such coffee machines in addition to normal and espresso coffees also Milkkaffee, cappuccino and latte macchiato and so on can. In addition, such machines can also be designed for dispensing chocolate-containing beverages. Increasingly popular are also coffee drinks, in which the coffee prepared in the coffee for flavoring a flavoring in the form of a syrup is added. Particularly suitable flavors here are, for example, vanilla, amaretto, hazelnut, caramel, cinnamon, almond or chocolate. These aroma- Fe NEN NEN the coffee beverage prepared in the coffee machine by hand, but also be fed automatically.

Furthermore, beverage dispensers for the dispensing of milk-based or cocoa-based hot drinks are known in which a mixture of milk and a syrup or hot water and a corresponding chocolate powder is produced and dispensed.

From the document EP 2 01 1 422 B 1 a coffee machine for dispensing brewed coffee with a coffee spout is known, which is assigned at least one supply means for dispensing at least one flavoring, each with a container for receiving a flavoring and conveying and dosing to deliver a metered quantity of the flavor from the container into a conduit. The pipe is provided with a spout which is arranged so that the conveyed flavoring substance reaches the vessel under the coffee outlet. A possibility for cleaning is not disclosed. Document EP 2 030 538 A2 discloses a device for preparing flavored hot drinks, in particular coffee, milk, tea or mixed drinks, with a device for preparing the hot drink, which has a first outlet, via which the hot drink enters Receiving vessel, such as a cup, a cup or the like, can be dispensed. At least one second outlet is provided which is fluidly separated from the first outlet and which is fluidically connected to at least one flavoring agent, in particular a syrup, in the receiving vessel with at least one aroma substance reservoir. A possibility for cleaning is not disclosed. Document EP 2 41 2 280 A1 discloses a beverage dispensing apparatus which contains a predetermined amount of a liquid base product and a predetermined amount of at least one flavoring agent. The apparatus comprises at least one container with the liquid base product, at least one container with the flavoring agent, a container for collecting the automated beverage and a suction / pressure unit with a suction inlet and a pressure outlet. The suction inlet of the unit is connected to the containers for the liquid base product and the flavor via valve-equipped lines, while the pressure outlet is connected to a nozzle for dispensing the automated beverage. Cleaning is not disclosed.

The document WO 20061 35864 A2 describes a hot drinks machine. The machine comprises a plurality of flavoring containers connected by pumps and valves to a plenum from which the flavoring agent is dispensed directly into a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber is also charged with milk and steam to allow mixing of milk, steam and flavor and then to fill the mixture into a dispensing container. The machine may include a coffee brewing system so that it can produce flavored coffee-milk beverages such as cappuccino or latte macchiato and the like. A venturi system delivers cooled milk and ambient air and delivers them to a mixer. The flavoring agent is introduced into the mixer. The steam is directed to the plenum to allow the release of the flavor and to ensure the cleanliness of the plenum.

From document US 2007202234 A 1 a flavor dispensing system for a coffee machine is known. The system removes by means of a pump or a valve a measured amount of an aroma liquid from one or more aroma liquid sources. A special device shifts the aroma liquid in a pipe such that unwanted dripping of aroma liquid after the dispensing step is prevented. A cleaning is not disclosed.

The document WO 200801 5097 A1 describes an additive dispensing unit having a plurality of containers and a plurality of pumps, each of which is arranged on a substructure. The pumps are connected to the containers to dispense one or more additives from the containers. The unit can be arranged on a coffee machine. A cleaning is not disclosed.

In such known systems for adding flavorings in syrup form to a basic beverage such as freshly brewed coffee, the effective spout is problematic. At the outlet, the syrup comes into contact with ambient air and begins to crystallize. Furthermore, due to the consistency of the syrup, dripping may occur at the spout, which is undesirable.

For drinks machines in the field of soft drinks, in which the drink from a syrup and a carbonated water is mixed in each case in a Ausgabedüse-, the document JP 1 0287394 has proposed to clean the dispensing nozzles in the installed state in a simple and effective manner by a special rinsing circuit is provided, is passed through the press of a button or by a timer carbonated water in the output unit to effectively wash off at the dispensing nozzle of adhesive contaminants. This cleaning is specially tailored to soft drink machines.

JP 2009255942 discloses a cleaning device for a beverage outlet of a soft drink preparation system, in which an adapter is placed on the dispensing unit to allow carbonated water to be applied to the side of the dispenser. diverted syrup nozzles divert that they are cleaned. This cleaning is specially tailored to soft drink machines.

Finally, document EP 820 715 A1 discloses a coffee machine with integrated milk frothing, a coffee spout and a milk spout, in which the coffee spout and the milk spout are structurally combined to form an outlet unit and arranged coaxially with one another. The milk spout surrounds the coffee spout. Axially extending webs are provided in the milk outlet, which impart a twist to the milk. The milk spout has an orifice extending obliquely to the vertical, which causes the milk to leave the milk spout laterally at a defined location which facilitates positioning of the cup below the spout. The outlet unit contains an emulsifying chamber for frothing the milk, which is connected to a mixing device for mixing air, steam and milk, the coffee outlet extending axially through the emulsifying chamber. With this arrangement, due to the obliquely cut outer spout, neither a thorough mixing of the fluids from the inner and outer spouts (in this case coffee and milk) can be achieved, nor can the outer spout for the specific cleaning or flushing of the inner spout be used.

Moreover, it is generally known in coffee machines, make a flushing or cleaning the leading to the beverage outlet lines and the beverage outlet even by cold or heated water sent with or without detergent additives through these lines and is discharged at the outlet into a corresponding receptacle. However, this usually requires additional line structures and valves in order to be able to switch between normal operation and a cleaning or rinsing operation. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTORY

It is an object of the invention to provide an output unit for a vending machine, which on the one hand can be used flexibly for the beverage preparation and on the other hand, in a simple way permanently hygienic conditions allows the vending machine.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a beverage dispenser with such dispensing unit.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a method for operating such a beverage dispenser

These and other objects are achieved by the features of claims 1, 7 and 22.

The invention relates to an output unit for a beverage dispenser, in particular for the dispensing of hot drinks, through which dispensing unit a beverage and / or ingredients for a beverage are dispensed to an underlying container, wherein the dispensing unit one or more outlet arrangements for drinks and / or ingredients having. The outlet arrangements each have a central inner outlet and an outer outlet which concentrically surrounds the inner outlet. The inventive dispensing unit is characterized in that the outer outlet is designed as an annular nozzle directed in the outlet direction, such that a fluid discharged through the outer outlet encloses the inner outlet in the form of a concentric fluid jacket. By means of this arrangement of inner outlet and outer outlet, on the one hand good mixing can be achieved, on the other hand, if both outlets are used to dispense a beverage ingredient. Another- On the other hand, the inner outlet can be flushed or cleaned in a simple way via the outer outlet.

An embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the inner outlet is formed by the end of a conduit, and that the outer outlet is set back relative to the inner outlet in the outlet direction. Hereby forms a concentric fluid jacket that effectively interacts with the inner outlet.

In particular, the outer wall of the conduit g leichzeitig form the inner wall of the outer outlet.

A further embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the output unit comprises a plurality of, preferably juxtaposed, outlet arrangements, each with one inside and outside outlet, and in that the outside outlets of the outlet arrangements have separate entrances. This makes it possible to individually select the outer outlet of each individual outlet arrangement for a fluid output.

However, it is also conceivable that the dispensing unit comprises a plurality of, preferably juxtaposed, outlet arrangements each having an inner and outer outlet, and that the outer outlets of the outlet arrangements have a common entrance. So Kings all outlet arrangements can be flushed or cleaned together in a simple manner.

Another embodiment is characterized in that at least some of the outer outlets of the outlet arrangements are part of a flushing device. The beverage dispenser according to the invention, which is provided in particular for the dispensing of hot beverages, comprises an output unit, through which a beverage and / or ingredients for a beverage are dispensed to a container underneath, the dispensing unit being designed according to the invention.

One embodiment of the drink dispenser according to the invention is characterized in that the beverage dispenser comprises a coffee preparation unit in which a freshly brewed coffee beverage is automatically prepared and dispensed via the dispensing unit to a container underneath, the dispenser or dispensers being flushed with a flushing line. Source is connected (are).

In particular, it has at least one syrup container from which, if required, a syrup can be dispensed via an inner outlet arranged on the dispensing unit and added to the coffee beverage, the associated outer outlet being connected to the flushing source via a separate flushing line.

In this case, the inner outlet can be connected to the associated syrup container via a syrup line, a syrup pump being arranged in the syrup line.

In particular, the syrup pump has a reversible pumping direction.

Another embodiment of the drinks vending machine is characterized in that meh rere, especially interchangeable, syrup container are provided, which are connected, in particular by means of detachable fluid couplings, via separate syrup tubes with associated separate internal outlets, and that in each of the syrup tubes own syrup pump is arranged. In particular, each of the inner outlets is assigned its own flushing device, which comprises the outer outlet and which is connected to the flushing fluid source via its own inlet.

Alternatively, all internal outlets may be associated with a common flushing device comprising the outer outlets, which is connected via an inlet to the flushing fluid source.

In this case, the flushing fluid source can be designed as a separate unit.

However, it is also conceivable that the rinse aid source is part of the coffee preparation unit.

A further embodiment of the drink dispenser according to the invention is characterized in that a compressed air source is provided, which is connected to the dispensing unit for blowing the inner outlets via a compressed air line.

However, the beverage keautomat according to the invention may also include a hot water and a powder container, which deliver hot water or a powdered beverage to a M ixer, which is the output side connected to the output unit, wherein the or the outlet arrangements via a separate flushing line with a Spülf luid- Source is connected (are).

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the drinks vending machine comprises a syrup container and a milk or milk foam dispensing unit, both of which are connected to the dispensing unit.

In particular, it may be that the milk unit with an outer outlet of an outlet arrangement and the syrup container with the associated inner outlet of the outlet arrangement are connected. This allows good mixing of the milk with the syrup.

Furthermore, the outlet arrangement connected to the milk unit can be connected to a flushing fluid source via a separate flushing line. In this way, the part of the dispensing unit loaded with milk can be cleaned in a simple manner.

The inventive method for operating a beverage vending machine according to the invention is characterized in that at least one of the Auslassanordnungen is automatically cleaned at predetermined times by the fact that in nere outlet via the outer outlet with a rinsing fluid outside is lapped.

In particular, the inner outlet can be cleaned after each dispensing.

But it is also conceivable that the inner outlet is cleaned after a predetermined number of drinks expenses.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the inner outlet is cleaned after a predetermined time has elapsed.

An embodiment of the method according to the invention is characterized in that the beverage vending machine has an output unit with a plurality of internal outlets, and that the inner outlets are individually cleaned if necessary.

But it is also conceivable that the drinks vending machine has an output unit with a plurality of inner outlets, and that the inner outlets are always cleaned together. A further embodiment of the method according to the invention is characterized in that the drinks vending machine comprises one or more syrup containers, which are connected to the inner outlets of the dispensing unit via a syrup line, respectively, and that during a rinsing process for rinsing or cleaning the syrup line rinsing fluid into the respective inner Suction is sucked in and transported in the direction of the syrup container through the syrup tube.

In particular, for syrup dispensing, syrup may be pumped from the respective syrup container by means of a syrup pump with reversible pumping direction through the syrup line to the associated internal outlet, with the associated syrup pump being operated in reverse pumping direction for aspirating the flushing fluid.

A further embodiment of the method according to the invention is characterized in that, alternatively or additionally to the cleaning of the inner outlets, the air is blown out in the inner outlets with compressed air in order to remove syrup drops hanging on the inner outlets.

In particular, the compressed air is blown out through the outer outlets.

In all cases, water, in particular hot water, is preferably used as flushing fluid.

In the case of a beverage vending machine provided with a mixer, it is advantageous if the outlet arrangement connected to the mixer is automatically cleaned at predetermined times by the outside outlet being flushed around with a rinsing fluid via the outside outlet. In the case of a vending machine provided with a milk unit, it is advantageous if the outlet arrangement connected to the milk unit is automatically cleaned at predetermined times by flushing out rinsing fluid via the outside outlet.

KU RZE EXPLANATION OF THE FIGURES

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments in connection with the Zeichn ung. Show it:

1 shows the simplified diagram of a drinks vending machine with a coffee preparation unit and a plurality of syrup containers and an output unit according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2 in Schnitt the exemplary construction of an outlet arrangement of the drinks vending machine according to FIG. 1, in this case with an associated flushing device according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 shows the basic arrangement of a plurality of Auslassanordnungen whose outer

Outlets each have their own entrance;

FIG. 4 shows, in a representation comparable to FIG. 3, a plurality of outlet arrangements with a common input; FIG.

FIG. 5 shows the drinks dispenser of FIG. 1 during the flushing of a syrup line; FIG. 6 shows a drinks vending machine according to a further embodiment of the invention, which is designed for the production of a M ischgetränks of a beverage powder and hot water. and

Fig. 7 a beverage keautomaten according to another embodiment of the

Invention designed for the preparation of a milk drink of milk or milk foam and a syrup.

WAY TO RUNNING THE INVENTORY

Fig. 1 shows the simplified diagram of a drinks vending machine according to an embodiment of the invention. The drinks vending machine 1 0 comprises a Kaffezubereitungsein unit 1 1, are ground fresh coffee beans, the ground coffee filled in a brewing unit and there is penetrated to brew a coffee beverage with hot water. The resulting coffee beverage is passed via a coffee line 23 to an output unit 1 6 and there via outlet arrangement in the form of a coffee outlet 1 7 in a container below, in particular a cup 2 1, issued.

Before, with or after the dispensing of the coffee beverage, in addition to foamed or unfoamed milk, a selected flavoring additive may be dispensed as an ingredient in a measured amount into the cup 2 1, for example in syrup form in various syrup containers 1 2a-e within the beverage vending machine 1 0 is kept.

For this purpose, in the dispensing unit 1 6, in addition to the coffee outlet 1 7, a plurality of separate inner outlets 1 8 are provided as syrup outlets, which are fluidically connected via their own syrup lines 1 5 and detachable fluid couplings 1 3 to the associated syrup containers 1 2 a-e. In the syrup tubes 1 5 is in each case a syrup pump 1 4a-e ange- orders, with a predetermined amount of syrup to the output unit 1 6 can be pumped. The Syrupleitungen 1 5 may be formed in particular as flexible hoses. Likewise, the syrup pumps 1 4a-e can be designed as peristaltic pumps. In such pumps, the pumping direction can be reversed by reversing the direction of rotation of the drive. In addition, valves (not shown in the figures), e.g. As pinch valves, to open or block certain lines or line sections are provided.

For rinsing or cleaning the inner outlets or syrup outlets 1 8, a rinsing fluid is provided which is directed to the dispensing unit 1 6 and in the output unit 1 6 to the inner outlets 1 8 and there is ejected concentrically surrounding the inner outlet. The flushing fluid, which in particular may be hot water with or without additions of cleaning agents, is provided by a flushing source 1 9, which is connected to the dispensing unit 16 via a flushing line 32. The Spülf luid source 1 9 may for example be connected to the fixed water connection or a water reservoir of the beverage vending machine 1 0 and include their own facilities for heating water. However, it is also conceivable to introduce the flushing fluid via a different flushing line 32 ^' from the coffee preparation unit 1 1 itself, which for brewing the coffee own means for heating water (boiler) includes.

Furthermore, a compressed-air source 20 (dashed line in FIG. 1) can be present which, instead of the flushing fluid, delivers compressed air to the delivery unit 1 6 via a compressed air line 33, where the compressed air (instead of the flushing fluid) is directed onto the inner outlets 1 8 in that 1 8 hanging syrup drops (29 in Fig. 2) are blown off at the inner outlet 1. If a separate compressed air source (air pump) for the preparation of milk foam is present in the coffee preparation unit 1 1, the compressed air can also be taken from this and supplied to the output unit 1 6 via a compressed air line 33 '. If the milk foam is made with the aid of compressed air in a foaming device in the dispensing unit 166 itself, the compressed air can also be diverted there.

The compressed air delivery can also be followed by a rinsing process to blow off any residues of the rinsing fluid from the inner outlets 18.

A single outlet arrangement with inner outlet 18 may be configured as shown in FIG. The inner outlet 1 8 is formed here by the end of a line 24 (in the case of the drinks machine of Fig. 1), for example, as syrup 1 5 the Ausgabein unit 1 6 with the associated syrup container 1 2a-e connects. The line end is surrounded by an annular space, which forms an outer outlet and which serves for the concentric supply of the flushing fluid 30. In Fig. 2, this concentric arrangement of central syrup (or inner outlet) for the syrup 25 and surrounding Spülf luid- channel (or outer outlet) as a flushing device 26 within the Ausgabein unit 1 6 denotes.

During the rinsing process, the rinsing fluid 30 exits through an annular nozzle 28 of the outer outlet as a concentric fluid jacket and rips at the end of the inner outlet sedentary drops 29 or dissolves and removes adhering to the end of the line, dried syrup. As already mentioned above, drops 29 sitting at the end of the line can in between be removed by blowing compressed air through the ring nozzle 28 of the outer outlet instead of the flushing fluid 30. 2, the outlet arrangement or flushing device 26 has an inlet 27, via the flushing fluid 30 from the separate Spülf luid source 1 9 or the coffee preparation unit 1 1, or compressed air from the compressed air source 20 or the Kaffeezubereitungsein unit 1 1, are supplied can.

It goes without saying that a control unit 22 is provided for controlling the flushing or blow-off operation, which controls in the simplest case at the same time also the coffee preparation unit 1 1 and the syrup pumps 1 4a-e to coordinate the various processes in time. Furthermore, additional valves can be provided at different locations, which are not shown in the figures.

The rinsing or cleaning of the inner outlets 18 can basically take place in two different ways according to FIGS. 3 and 4. In the case of FIG. 3, a flushing device 26a-d with its own inlet 27a-d is assigned to each inner outlet 1 8a-d in the delivery unit 16, so that each inner outlet can be flushed separately. For this purpose, the entrances to the individual flushing devices 26a-d must be mounted separately and be individually controllable, which increases the expenditure on equipment.

In the case of Fig. 4, all in neren outlets 1 8a-d of the output unit 1 6 'have a common flushing device 26 with only one input 27 and a distribution chamber 3 1 through which the flushing fluid can flow to all annular nozzles or external outlets. In this case, all inner outlets 1 8a-d can only be flushed together. However, the line and control costs compared to the embodiment of FIG. 3 is lower.

In both cases, it can also be provided that the outlet arrangement 1 7 for the coffee beverage is likewise equipped with a flushing device of the type shown in FIG. 2, in order to also flush or flush the inner outlet there with the flushing fluid if required Be able to blow compressed air. The same applies to any milk or milk foam outlet or outlets for other additional types of drinks, such as milk. As a chocolate drink k (see Figs. 6 and 7).

The output of a sheath flow of flushing fluid through the annular nozzle 28 of the outer outlet during the flushing allows in a simple manner, a basic flushing a Syrupleitung 1 5 or another line, which may be necessary, for example, when replacing a syrup container, especially when changing the syrup. This flushing can be carried out particularly simply if 1 4a-e pumps with a reversible pumping direction are used as syrup pumps. The configuration in such a line purge is shown in Fig. 5, which shows the rinsing of the syrup line from the syrup container 1 2c to the output unit 1 6.

To remove the syrup container 1 2c, the associated fluid coupling 1 3c is first released. Then, a flushing operation is initiated at the inner outlet 1 8c. At the same time, the pumping direction of the syrup pump 1 4c is reversed. H hereby is from the bypass flow of the flushing fluid exiting from the associated annular nozzle 28 of the flushing device 26, sucked flushing fluid into the syrup 1 5 and pumped to the fluid coupling 1 3c, where it can escape and be collected. This process can also be automated if appropriate controllable switching devices (valves) are provided between the syrup pump and the syrup container.

The flushing of the internal outlets 1 8a-d (or other outlets) can be done after each syrup (fluid) dispensing. It is just as well but also conceivable that a flushing process is initiated only after reaching a predetermined number of syrup issues, provided that the risk of contamination is low. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the rinsing operations are time-controlled, ie after each expiry of a certain operating time or be initiated at the end of a day. Of course, rinses can be initiated at any time by pressing a special control button, if the need exists.

The blowing off of drops by compressed air can be interposed between two rinsing operations in order to make the formation of residues on the inner outlet more difficult, without a complete rinsing process being necessary. This allows the purging intervals to be extended. Blowing can be time-controlled or event-controlled. However, it is also kbar to attach to the output unit 1 6, 1 6 'special sensors that detect the occurrence of drops (or residues) and then trigger a controlled Abblas- or flushing.

The advantages of the invention are not limited to vending machines in which coffee is freshly prepared with or without flavoring additives.

The concentric arrangement of inner outlet and outer outlet in the output unit can be used in a beverage dispenser in other contexts with advantage. 6 shows a drinks vending machine 40, in which (as an alternative or in addition to the preparation of a coffee beverage) a hot drink (broth, tea, hot chocolate, etc.) can be prepared, which is prepared from hot water and a corresponding beverage powder through Mchen. H here is a hot water heater 34 is provided in the drinks vending machine 40, which emits hot water to a mixer 37 via an output. Furthermore, a powder container 35 for a beverage powder is arranged in the drinks vending machine 40, to which a predetermined amount of beverage powder can be removed and transported to the mixer 38 by means of a conveying device 36. In blender 37, the hot water and the beverage powder make the desired hot drink prepared and delivered to the output unit 1 6, where it passes through a M ischgetränkauslass 38 in the underlying cup 2 1.

The mixed beverage outlet 38 may be part of an outlet assembly having a central inner outlet and a concentrically surrounding outer outlet as previously described. Here, too, a rinsing or cleaning of the inner outlet used for the beverage dispensing can take place in that rinsing fluid introduced from a rinse aid source 1 9 is ejected via the outer outlet.

The concentric arrangement of the inner outlet and the outer outlet can also be used with advantage a beverage dispenser 40 'according to FIG. 7, which (alternatively or in addition to the preparation of a coffee beverage) can prepare and dispense a milk drink. For this purpose, a milk unit 39 is provided, which is associated with at least one syrup container 1 2f with a corresponding syrup pump 1 4f. The syrup pump 1 4f conveys syrup to the inner outlet 1 8f in the dispensing unit 16 as needed, while the milk unit 39, which can provide milk or milk foam in hot or cold form, dispenses milk over the associated outer outlet. The concentric outlet of syrup (inside) and milk (in the outer casing) ensures a particularly good mixing, which benefits the quality of the drink being dispensed. An additional advantage in this case is that the outer outlet, which is loaded with milk, can be rinsed and cleaned very simply in the manner already described with a flushing fluid which is supplied from a flushing fluid source via the flushing line 33.

The problem and solution of the present invention can be summarized as follows: While in the past syrup was often dosed manually into various drinks, today a trend can be seen in which the syrup is to be dosed fully automatically. Syrup has the great advantage that it can be stored for a very long time without the quality suffers. The problem is, however, the effective output. At this point, the syrup comes into contact with ambient air and begins to crystallize. Due to the consistency of the syrup but it also leads to a drop formation at the outlet.

The syrup lines are held in one embodiment of the invention by a concentrically shaped carrier. This is designed in such a way that the outside of the hose can be flushed with a rinsing liquid (eg hot water, cleaning agent or similar) via a rinsing connection, thus washing off any possible syrup residues.

This rinse cycle can be performed as often as desired. There may be a minimum flush after each product dispensing to prevent the build-up of crystallized syrup or daily after a longer period of use.

It is also possible that this system with compressed air, the dripping of syrup can be prevented.

Another possibility is that during the flushing the syrup pump can run backwards and thus rinse water is sucked through the syrup line. This allows a fully automatic cleaning with hot water to be implemented before a new syrup container is mounted.

The concentric arrangement of the inner outlet and the outer outlet in the outlet arrangements of the dispensing unit is not only advantageous in dispensing syrup for the flavoring of coffee beverages, but can generally be used. when the vending machine is designed to dispense hot drinks such as broth, tea, hot chocolate or the like.

In particular, when milk beverages are dispensed, the mixing through the concentric outlet arrangement can be improved, resulting in a simplified cleaning of the outlet arrangement, when the milk or milk froth is mixed in via the outer outlet.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10,40,40 'Vending machine

11 coffee preparation unit

12a-f syrup container

13,13c fluid coupling

14a-f syrup pump (e.g., peristaltic pump)

15 syrup line

16.16 ^' output unit

17 coffee outlet

18 inner outlet

18a-d inner outlet

19 Flushing source

20 compressed air source

21 cups

22 control unit

23 coffee line

24 line syrup

Flushing device-d flushing device

Entrance-the entrance

ring nozzle

drops

flushing fluid

Distribution chamber, 32 'purge line

, 33 'compressed air line

Hot water heater

powder container

conveyor

M ixer

M ischgetränkauslass

dairy unit

Claims

claims

First dispensing unit (16, 16 ') for a beverage dispenser (10, 40, 40'), in particular for the dispensing of hot drinks, through which dispensing unit (16, 16 ') a drink and / or ingredients for a drink to an underlying Container (21) are output, wherein the output unit (16, 16 ') one or more outlet arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d) for drinks and / or ingredients, wherein the outlet arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d) respectively a central inner outlet (24) and an outer outlet (28) concentrically surrounding the inner outlet (24), characterized in that the outer outlet is designed as an outlet-directed annular nozzle (28) such that a fluid discharged through the outer outlet (28) encloses the inner outlet (24) in the form of a concentric fluid jacket.

2. Dispensing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the inner outlet is formed by the end of a conduit (24), and in that the outer outlet (28) is set back relative to the inner outlet (24) in the outlet direction.

3. Dispensing unit according to claim 2, characterized in that the outer wall of the conduit (24) simultaneously forms the inner wall of the outer outlet (28).

4. Dispensing unit according to one of claims 1 -3, characterized in that the output unit (16, 16 ') a plurality, preferably juxtaposed, outlet arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d) each having an inner and outer outlet (24, 28 ) and that the outer outlets (28) of the outlet assemblies (17, 18, 18a-d) have separate inlets (27a-d).

5. Dispensing unit according to one of claims 1 -3, characterized in that the dispensing unit (16, 16 ') comprises a plurality of, preferably juxtaposed, outlet arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d) each having an inner and outer outlet, and that the outer outlets (28) of the outlet arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d) have a common inlet (27).

6. Dispensing unit according to one of claims 1-6, characterized in that at least some of the outer outlets (28) of the outlet arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d) are part of a flushing device (26, 31).

7. Vending machine (10, 40, 40 '), in particular for the dispensing of hot drinks, with an output unit (16, 16'), through which a drink and / or ingredients for a drink to an underlying container (21) are issued , characterized in that the dispensing unit (16, 16 ') according to any one of claims 1-6 is formed.

8. Vending machine according to claim 7, characterized in that the vending machine (10) comprises a coffee preparation unit (11), in which automatically prepared a freshly brewed coffee beverage and output via the output unit (16, 16 ') to an underlying container (21) is, wherein the outlet or the arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d, 38) via a separate purge line (32, 32 ') with a Spülf luid source (19) is connected (are).

9. Vending machine according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises at least one syrup container (12a-e), from which, if necessary, a syrup via an output on the unit (16) arranged inner outlet (18; 18a-d) and the coffee beverage can be added, and that the associated external Outlet (28) via a separate purge line (32, 32 ') with the Spülf luid source (19) is connected.

10. Vending machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the inner outlet (18; 18a-d) is connected to the associated syrup container (12a-e) via a syrup line (15), and in that the syrup line (15) is a syrup pump (18). 14a-e) is arranged.

11. Vending machine according to claim 11, characterized in that the syrup pump (14a-e) has a reversible pumping direction.

12. Vending machine according to one of claims 9-11, characterized in that a plurality, in particular interchangeable, syrup container (12a-e) are provided which, in particular by means of detachable fluid couplings (13) via separate syrup tubes (15) with associated separate inner outlets (18; 18a-d), and in each of the syrup lines (15) a separate syrup pump (14a-e) is arranged.

13. Vending machine according to claim 12, characterized in that each of the inner outlets (18; 18a-d) is associated with its own, the outer outlet (28) comprehensive flushing device (26), which via its own entrance (27a-d) with the Spülf luid source (19) is connected.

14. Drink dispenser according to claim 13, characterized in that all the internal outlets (18, 18a-d) is associated with the outer outlets (28) comprehensive common flushing device (26, 31), which via an input (27) with the rinsing luid Source (19) is connected.

15. Vending machine according to one of claims 8- 14, characterized in that the Spülf luid source (19) is formed as a separate unit.

16. Vending machine according to one of claims 9-15, characterized in that the Spülf luid source is part of the coffee preparation unit (11).

17. Vending machine according to one of claims 8-17, characterized in that a compressed air source (20) is provided, which for blowing the inner outlets (17, 18, 18a-d,) via a compressed air line (33, 33 ') with the Output unit (16, 16 ') is connected.

18. Vending machine according to claim 7, characterized in that the drinks vending machine (40) comprises a hot water heater (34) and a powder container (35) which deliver hot water or a beverage powder to a mixer (37), the output side with the output unit (16), wherein the outlet arrangement (s) (17, 18, 18a-d, 37) is (are) connected via a separate flushing line (32, 32 ') to a flushing source (19).

19. Vending machine according to claim 7, characterized in that the drinks vending machine (40 ') comprises a syrup container (12f) and a milk or milk foam dispensing milk unit (39), which are both connected to the output unit (16).

A vending machine according to claim 19, characterized in that the milk unit (39) is connected to an outer outlet (28) of an outlet arrangement and the syrup container to the associated inner outlet (18f) of the outlet arrangement.

21. Vending machine according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the milk unit (39) connected to the outlet arrangement via a separate purge line (32) with a Spülf luid source (19) is connected.

22. A method for operating a beverage dispenser (10) according to any one of claims 8-17, characterized in that at least one of the outlet arrangements (17, 18, 18a-d) is automatically cleaned at predetermined times by the fact that the inner outlet on the outer Outlet (28) with a flushing fluid (30) outside is lapped.

A method according to claim 22, characterized in that the inner outlet (18; 18a-d) is cleaned after each dispensing of beverage.

A method according to claim 22, characterized in that the inner outlet (18; 18a-d) is cleaned after a predetermined number of drinks dispensing operations.

25. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that the inner outlet (18; 18a-d) is cleaned after a predetermined time has elapsed.

26. A method according to any one of claims 22-25, characterized in that the beverage vending machine (10) has an output unit (16) with a plurality of inner outlets (18; 18a-d), and in that the inner outlets (18; 18a-d) be cleaned if necessary in each case for themselves.

27. The method according to any one of claims 22-25, characterized in that the drinks vending machine (10) has an output unit (16) having a plurality of inner outlets (18; 18a-d) and that the inner outlets (18; 18a-d) are always cleaned together.

28. The method according to any one of claims 22-27, characterized in that the drinks vending machine (10) one or more syrup container (12a-e) comprises, with the inner outlets (18; 18a-d) of the output unit (16, 16 ' ) are each connected via a syrup line (15), and that during a flushing operation for flushing or cleaning the syrup line (15) flushing fluid (30) in the respective inner outlet (18; 18a-d) sucked and in the direction of the syrup container (12a -e) is transported through the syrup line (15).

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that for syrup dispensing syrup from the respective syrup container (12a-e) by means of a syrup pump (14a-e) with reversible pumping direction through the syrup tube (15) to the associated inner outlet (18, 18a-d ) is pumped, and that for sucking the flushing fluid (30) the associated syrup pump (14a-e) is operated in the reverse pumping direction.

30. The method according to any one of claims 22-29, characterized in that alternatively or additionally to the cleaning of the inner outlets (18; 18a-d), the inner outlets (18; 18a-d) are blown with compressed air (33,33 ') to remove syrup drops (29) hanging from the internal outlets (18; 18a-d).

31. The method according to claim 30, characterized in that the compressed air via the outer outlets (28) is blown out.

32. The method according to any one of claims 22-31, characterized in that as flushing fluid (30) water, in particular hot water, is used.

33. Method for operating a drinks vending machine (40) according to claim 18, characterized in that the outlet arrangement (38) connected to the mixer (37) is automatically cleaned at predetermined times by the inner outlet via the outer outlet (28) a flushing fluid (30) is flushed outside.

34. A method for operating a beverage vending machine (40 ') according to claim 20, characterized in that the outlet unit connected to the milk unit (39) is automatically cleaned at predetermined times by flushing flushing fluid (30) over the outer outlet (28) ,